Importance

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Abstract

A solvent band casting system, roll coating apparatus, and method of using the same are disclosed. The system includes a tank for mixing and/or storing a polymer solution for a band casting machine having at least a first and a second rotating drums about which a continuous metal band is tensioned to travel with the rotation of the drums. A sheeting die applies the polymer solution from the tank to the metal band where a drying chamber, enclosing a least a portion of the metal band downline of the sheeting die, is used to remove solvent from the polymer solution as it travels in a thin sheet on the metal band. A roll coater surfactant applicator in communication with a supply of surfactant and a portion of the band transfers fluid surfactant to the casting surface. In addition, the use of a surfactant to substantially reduce or eliminate bubbles in the polymer film product is disclosed, as well as the mechanisms by which the surfactant is believed to facilitate bubble reduction. Finally, a system controller can be connected to monitor and/or control at least one component of the system.

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First Claim